by John Marshall

“ Sir,– Having laid before my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty your letter of the 12th April, transmitting two letters from Captain Walcott, of the Tyne, reporting the proceedings of that ship and the Thracian, in search of piratical vessels, and the capture of a schooner of that description, called the Zaragozana, by the boats of the Tyne and Thracian, in the harbour of Mata, I am commanded by their Lordships to express their approbation of the conduct of Captain Walcott and the other officers and men employed. ”

“ A more deserving, good young officer does not exist. I hope therefore, you may be induced to assist in his confirmation with Mr. Rose. Believe me always yours most truly,
(Signed) ⁠“Samuel Hood.” Mr. Walcott’s commission was confirmed by the Admiralty, Nov. 25, 1808, from which period he served under Sir Samuel Hood, in the Centaur, Hibernia, and Minden, on the coast of Spain, in the Baltic, and on the Mediterranean and East India stations, until the demise of that great and lamented officer, who expired at Madras, literally worn out in the service of his country, Dec. ”

“ Sir,– Lieutenant John Edward Walcott, flag-lieutenant and secretary to the late commander-in-chief, Vice-Admiral Sir Samuel Hood, being on his return to England, I feel I cannot do better than refer my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to him for information on all circumstances connected with this squadron, both previous to and since the period of the lamented Admiral’s decease. ”